“…The SoO agreements state that in case the groups (KNO and UPF) are found violating the ground rules, the government of Manipur, on the recommendation of the Joint Monitoring Group (JMG), may terminate the SoO arrangements and also take appropriate action including use of force against the groups,” the memorandum said.However, the groups pointed out that KNO and UPF, who were allegedly responsible for the violence, are themselves part of the JMG, making it unlikely that the panel would recommend action against them.The civil society organisations suggested that the Centre either abrogate the SoO pacts as was earlier recommended by the state government or establish a popular government or conduct fresh elections in the state, so that the elected government can take a call on the renewal of the SoO agreements.“If SoO agreements were to be renewed, then their structure and framework should be holistically reviewed for effective and efficient implementation,” they categorically stated.Further, they recommended the establishment of an independent and neutral arbitrator under the Constitution of India to resolve any conflict of interest.“The armed militants, who committed acts of violence, should be prosecuted according to the law, and if any signatories or members of KNO and UPF are found to be associated directly or indirectly, they should not be protected. The SoO agreements should be considered as a mechanism for non-violence and not as protector of violence,” the civil groups further wrote in the memorandum.
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